The Commercial Pilot Licence (Helicopter) course is normally run in parallel with the Instrument Rating so when you finish you have qualified for both.  This makes you more employable.  However the CPL can be done alone and the Instrument Rating done later.  You can get employment without the Instrument Rating. 

Course requirements for the Commercial Licence with Instrument Rating are a further 150 total flying hours after the PPL, which includes 100 solo hours of which 50 must be cross-country by day and/or night.  You must hold a valid Night Rating.  A minimum of 40 hours of instrument flight training is required of which 20 hours can be flown on a simulator.  In addition to the practical flying hours, the student is required to pass the CAA theoretical examinations.  You will only be recommended for your final flight tests once you have completed the minimum requirements and more importantly, reached the standard required.

The full PPL/Night Rating/Commercial/Instrument Rating lasts approximately 12 - 14 months, depending on weather, operational requirements and the student’s progress.

Before applying for ther CPL you will be required to pass a further, Class One medical.  The minimum age for acquiring a CPL is 18 but there is no upper age limit.

A good knowledge of basic mathematics and physics and a good command of the English language is required to apply for this course.

You will be provided with books and equipment at the start of the course and these are yours to keep.

The CAA CPL (including Instrument Rating) written examinations cover the following:

• Meteorology
• Flight planning and performance
• Radio aids and communication
• Navigation and plotting
• Air law and operating procedures
• Instruments and electronics
• Human Performance
• Helicopter technical and general

All the above are multiple choice examinations.

You will be required to attend a full ground school course which is divided into two sections; the first covering 5 papers followed by a short break for self-study and examinations, then the balance of the subjects followed by the remaining examinations.